Advertisement

Police Lostprophets 'lessons'

South Wales police have launched a review over the case of Lostprophets singer Ian Watkins say lessons would be learnt 'if we got it wrong' after documents showed they were aware of abuse claims in 2008.

Lostprophets 'heartbroken and disgusted' by lead singer

The former bandmates of "determined and committed" paedophile Ian Watkins said they were "heartbroken, angry and disgusted" by him, and denied they knew anything about his ongoing campaign of child abuse.

Writing on Facebook, the remaining bandmates; Luke Johnson, Jamie Oliver, Lee Gaze, Stuart Richardson and Mike Lewis said the charges they initially found so difficult to believe were now impossible to deny. They urged any other victims to contact authorities.

Lost Prophets with the award for Classic Songwriter at The Relentless Energy Drink Kerrang! Awards at The Brewery, London on July 29, 2010. Credit: PA

"Earlier this week, we learned that the allegations of child sexual abuse against Ian were true, and that he would not be contesting them in court. Until then, we found them extremely difficult to believe and had hoped it was all a mistake.

"Sadly, the true extent of his appalling behaviour is now impossible to deny.Many of you understandably want to know if we knew what Ian was doing. To be clear: We did not. We knew that Ian was a difficult character.

"Our personal relationships with him had deteriorated in recent years to a point that working together was a constant, miserable challenge.

"But despite his battles with drugs, his egotistic behaviour, and the resulting fractures and frustrations within our band, we never imagined him capable of behaviour of the type he has now admitted.

"We are heartbroken, angry, and disgusted at what has been revealed. This is something that will haunt us for the rest of our lives.

"Being in a band has always been a labour of love and a platform to inspire people, not to take advantage of them. It's still hard to believe this is happening and that someone we were once so close to has destroyed so many lives, lying every step of the way.

"Our hearts go out to Ian's family, the fans and friends he betrayed, and most importantly, the victims of his crimes and others like them. We hope for justice, but also that Ian will truly take responsibility for what he's done. We would urge any other victims to contact the authorities."